Provost Garza to Step Down

Provost and Dean of Faculties Cutberto Garza has announced that he will step down from his position on June 30 after eight years of service. Garza will take a year-long study leave as he transitions to his new role as University Professor starting in September of 2014.

During his tenure, Garza strengthened Boston College’s faculty, enhanced the University’s research capability and boosted its academic reputation. He also helped to establish effective assessment procedures that led to increased efficiencies in academic areas.

“Serving as Boston College’s chief academic officer since 2005 has been a personal privilege,” said Garza. “I have learned much and enjoyed working with faculty, administrative colleagues, students and alumni to sustain BC’s remarkable trajectory. I look forward to working in my new role in support of the same goal.”

University President William P. Leahy, SJ, thanked Garza for his years of dedicated service and for his role in advancing the academic mission of Boston College.

“During his years as provost and dean of faculties, Bert helped to recruit some of our best young faculty, strengthen our student advisement system and improve our faculty tenure process,” said Fr. Leahy.

“External research funding also increased under his watch, as the University’s reputation for research excellence improved across all disciplines. Boston College has benefitted from his wisdom and experience, and I look forward to his continued contribution as University Professor.”

“During his tenure, Bert has been a tireless advocate for academic programs at Boston College,” said Executive Vice President Patrick Keating. “Our undergraduate, graduate and professional programs have improved across all of the University’s colleges and schools, as evidenced by the national rankings, the quality of the student body, and the reputation and productivity of our faculty.”

Since joining Boston College, Garza has maintained his commitment to public service and his scholarly interests. While provost, Garza served as a member or chair of technical advisory groups for the National Academies of Science, the World Health Organization, World Food Program and other national and international organizations. He was a key organizer of three international symposia on topics related to nutrition and health, and was recognized for his research and public service with the American Society for Nutrition’s Conrad A. Elvehjem Award for Public Service in Nutrition in 2008 and the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Samuel J. Fomon Nutrition Award in 2011. He co-authored and/or co-edited 45 articles, monographs, and technical reports with an international group of colleagues.

Last month, he was one of 10 scientists named as fellows of the American Society for Nutrition, the highest award given by that society.

Fr. Leahy has named Joseph F. Quinn, professor of economics and the former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, as Interim Provost, effective July 1.

A national search for BC’s next provost and dean of faculties will begin immediately.